Charlie Langhorne, Director of Wild in Art, said: "We hope that Flt Lt Egging's widow finds some small bit of comfort when looking at the flowers and tributes laid at the foot of our lion.

"We are very happy to work with Bournemouth Borough Council to see how the lions can either be a fitting memorial or contribute towards a memorial that celebrates the pride we all feel for the Red Arrows pilots and crew."

Pam Donnellan, Chief Executive of Bournemouth Borough Council, said: "When the time is right, we will be talking to Flt Lt Egging's family, and in particular his wife Emma, the RAF and other appropriate organisations.

"Their wishes will be the driver for any decisions that we make."

An inquest into Flt Lt Egging's death has been opened and adjourned in Bournemouth.

The council said it would hand the books of condolence to Flt Lt Egging's family, along with any donations given by members of the public for the family's chosen charity.

And the council asked anyone wishing to leave floral tributes to place them on the grass banks around the town hall.